Srinagar, Nov 4: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para on Monday introduced a resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly calling for the restoration of Article 370 of the Constitution. This move occurred during the first session of the newly convened Assembly and ignited a heated debate among lawmakers.
Para’s resolution states, “This House opposes the revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and the constitutional disempowerment brought about by the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. We call for its complete rescinding and strive for the restoration of special status and all constitutional guarantees in their original form.”
After the first day of the session, Para spoke to the press, stating that elections in Jammu and Kashmir typically occur every five to six years. He highlighted the significant voter turnout this time, reflecting public sentiment and confidence in the government, which he believes supports his resolution.
“In this Assembly, it’s not just about politics or debating issues. Our resolution speaks to the essence of Jammu and Kashmir, its first leader, the Maharaja of Jammu, and the vision he had for the state. No one should oppose our resolution; it honors the legacy of Jammu’s first leader.”
Following the election of veteran National Conference leader Abdul Rahim Rather as Speaker, Para congratulated him and referenced the 1951 Constituent Assembly, when National Conference founder Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah was in power. “Just like Sheikh Abdullah’s Assembly, this one too serves as a platform to discuss our relationship with the Union,” he said. “I urge that a resolution be passed in the House to oppose the J&K Reorganisation Act and restore Article 370.”
Para’s remarks sparked strong reactions, with BJP legislators demanding the resolution be dismissed. BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma stated, “This is not appropriate for the first day. Such matters should not be introduced in this House.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticised Para’s resolution, suggesting it was introduced merely for show and lacked genuine significance. “We were aware that a member was preparing for this. The resolution has no real importance; it seems designed only for the cameras. If there was a real purpose, there would have been discussions beforehand.”
Support for Para’s resolution came from Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference chief Sajad Lone and Awami Ittehad Party MLA Sheikh Khursheed. Speaker Rather indicated that he would review the resolution before making a decision, saying, “I have not examined this yet. Please allow me to look it over.”
